Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup

Discover how to recreate the famous Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. This hearty and comforting soup is perfect for chilly days and will satisfy your cravings with its rich flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups yellow sweet onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 (15 ounce) can chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 2 chicken bouillon cubes
• 1/4 cup Velveeta cheese, diced
• 1 1/2 – 1 3/4 cups Thick White Sauce (see recipe below)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
• Dark Russian Bread (for serving)

White Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk

Directions:

1. Cooking Onions:
   • In a 2-quart saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low to medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are soft, clear, but not browned.
2. Adding Broth and Seasonings:
   • Pour in the chicken broth from the can and add chicken bouillon cubes, salt, and pepper. Stir until heated through.
3. Preparing White Sauce:
   • In a separate 1-quart saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the saucepan.
4. Creating Thick White Sauce:
   • Gradually pour in the whole milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add salt and continue cooking until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Combining Ingredients:
   • Add the prepared Thick White Sauce and diced Velveeta cheese to the onion mixture in the saucepan. Stir continuously over medium-low heat until the cheese melts completely and all ingredients are well blended.
6. Simmering:
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for an additional 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving and Storage Tips :

After preparing the delicious Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup, here are some tips to enhance your serving experience and ensure it stays fresh:

Serving Suggestions:

1. Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle each serving of onion soup with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor and texture.
2. Accompaniments: Serve the soup with a side of warm, crusty dark Russian bread or your favorite bread rolls. The bread complements the rich flavors of the soup and adds a delightful crunch.
3. Soup Bowls: For an elegant presentation, serve the soup in deep soup bowls or crocks. This not only looks appealing but also helps retain the soup’s warmth.
4. Additional Toppings: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover onion soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
2. Freezing: While onion soup can be frozen, creamy soups like this one with cheese may separate slightly upon thawing. If freezing, cool the soup completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Reheating: To reheat frozen or refrigerated onion soup, gently warm it over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture if needed.
4. Freshness Check: Before serving reheated soup, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add a dash of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup remains delicious and enjoyable for every serving. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner at home or preparing a comforting meal for loved ones, these tips will help you make the most of this savory soup recipe!

Variations :

Explore different flavors and ingredients with these creative variations of the classic Walkabout Onion Soup recipe:

1. Spicy Kick:
   • Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup for a spicy twist. Top with shredded pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
2. French Onion Style:
   • Use beef broth instead of chicken broth for a deeper flavor. Top each serving with toasted baguette slices and a generous amount of Gruyère cheese, then broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
3. Vegetarian Option:
   • Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken bouillon cubes. Enhance with a variety of sautéed mushrooms or roasted garlic for added depth.
4. Herb Infusion:
   • Stir in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley during cooking for a fragrant herbal touch. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs on top before serving.
5. Creamy Upgrade:
   • Increase the creaminess by adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the soup just before serving. This adds richness and a velvety texture.
6. Cheese Lover’s Delight:
   • Experiment with different types of cheeses such as Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella. Mix them into the soup or use as a topping for a cheesy indulgence.
7. Bacon Infused:
   • Cook crispy bacon separately, crumble it, and sprinkle it over the soup just before serving. The smoky flavor of bacon complements the savory onion soup perfectly.
8. Italian-Inspired:
   • Add Italian seasoning or a dash of balsamic vinegar to the soup for a Mediterranean flair. Serve with a side of garlic breadsticks or Parmesan crisps.
9. Tex-Mex Fusion:
   • Incorporate chopped green chilies, corn kernels, and a blend of Mexican cheeses into the soup. Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
10. Asian Influence:
    • Infuse the soup with ginger, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil. Garnish with sliced green onions and a drizzle of sriracha for a unique twist.

These variations offer diverse ways to customize your Walkabout Onion Soup, ensuring it suits different tastes and preferences while maintaining the essence of this comforting dish. Whether you’re craving something spicy, creamy, or packed with bold flavors, these ideas will inspire you to create a memorable soup experience at home!

FAQs :

Here are answers to common questions about making and enjoying Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup:

1. Can I use a different type of onion?
   • Yes, you can experiment with different types of onions such as red onions or Vidalia onions for varying levels of sweetness and flavor.
2. Is Velveeta cheese necessary, or can I use another type of cheese?
   • Velveeta cheese adds a creamy texture and mild flavor to the soup. You can substitute with American cheese or a mild cheddar if preferred.
3. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
   • Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make the white sauce. Ensure all other ingredients, including broth and bouillon cubes, are gluten-free.
4. What can I use if I don’t have chicken bouillon cubes?
   • Substitute with chicken broth concentrate or use additional canned chicken broth to enhance the flavor.
5. How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
   • If the soup is thinner than desired, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Gradually add to the simmering soup, stirring constantly, until thickened.
6. Can I freeze Walkabout Onion Soup?
   • Cream-based soups like Walkabout Onion Soup can separate when frozen. While it’s possible to freeze, the texture may change upon thawing. Store in airtight containers and thaw gently in the refrigerator before reheating.
7. How long does Walkabout Onion Soup stay fresh in the refrigerator?
   • Properly stored in an airtight container, Walkabout Onion Soup can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
8. Can I make the white sauce ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the white sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Stir well before adding to the soup, and reheat gently if needed.
9. What can I serve with Walkabout Onion Soup?
   • Serve with warm crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad for a complete meal. The soup pairs well with a variety of breads for dipping.
10. How can I make Walkabout Onion Soup vegetarian?
    • Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, omit the chicken bouillon cubes, and use a vegetarian-friendly cheese alternative. Customize with additional vegetables or herbs for added flavor.

Enjoy the comforting flavors of this Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup recipe in the comfort of your own home. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this soup will warm hearts and satisfy appetites with its delicious blend of onions, cheese, and savory broth.